Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil is produced by steam distillation of the flowering tops of Lavandula angustifolia. It has a soft floral-herbaceous aroma with fresh, sweet, and lightly woody notes and is generally considered a middle note in aromatic formulations.

Four Primary Constituents and Typical Ranges

• Linalyl acetate: approximately 25–45%
• Linalool: approximately 20–40%
• β-Caryophyllene: approximately 2–8%
• Terpinen-4-ol: approximately 1–6%

These are representative natural ranges rather than guaranteed batch values. Composition varies with plant variety or chemotype, growing region, harvest, processing, distillation, storage, and the individual production batch.

Common Uses and Aromatic Properties

This essential oil is commonly used in bedtime and relaxation blends, skin and scalp care, after-sun products, massage oils, linen sprays, and floral perfumery. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally valued for calming, balancing, skin-soothing, cleansing, antispasmodic, and comfort-supporting properties. These descriptions refer to customary aromatic and cosmetic use and are not claims that the oil diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents disease.

Adult Dilution and Use

Use at 1–3% for general adult topical preparations, equal to approximately 2–6 drops in 10 mL; use 0.5–1% for facial products. Drop measurements are approximate because drop size varies by oil and dispenser. Begin with the lowest effective dilution and perform a patch test before broader use.

Use With Children

Generally suitable for children age 2 and older. Use approximately 0.25–0.5% for ages 2–5 and 0.5–1% for ages 6–12. Do not use essential oils routinely with children under age 2 unless directed by a pediatric healthcare professional or qualified clinical aromatherapist. Never place essential oils in or near a child's eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or hands.

Safety Precautions

May cause irritation or sensitization when old or oxidized. Store tightly closed away from heat and light and use caution alongside strongly sedating medication. For external and aromatic use only. Do not ingest unless specifically directed by a properly qualified healthcare professional. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes, keep out of reach of children, and discontinue use if irritation or breathing discomfort occurs.